Fabric trends 2020 – the colours, patterns and materials to use

2012 sees an abundance of colourful blooms in the form of beautiful, smaller scale contemporary florals. New fabric designs feature a variety of flowers perfectly captured in spontaneous, fluid brush strokes.

‘With design inspiration more accessible than ever before, we’re seeing homeowner’s tastes evolve and become braver. As we transition to 2020, this more confident approach to interiors has encouraged a step away from safe, muted tones of the past, in favour of expressionist trends that feature graphic prints and rich colour palettes,’ says Louisa Tratalos,Head of Brand, Arley House.

1. AHEAD OF THE CURVE

Sweeping lines, tactile surfaces and deep tones of copper and red combine to create a deliciously warm and cocooning interior, with contrasting textures and a touch of glamour. Rich, plush velvets are certainly here to stay. ‘Matte velvets in solid colours tend to be most popular, however this is being quickly followed by the more classic textured velvet finish that offers a look that’s full of character and charm,’ explains Jo Butters, Creative Designer, Parker Knoll.

Image credit: Damian Russell

Etienne Grand Sofa in Mancini Charcoal, £2,250, Parker Knoll.

2. RAW WEAVES

With pronounced warps and wefts, these stubby fabrics in rustic checks and bouclés resemble cloth cut from an artisan weaver’s loom.

3. THE ARTIST’S MARK

Loose brushstrokes, playful daubs and block prints on fabric in a strong monochrome palette bring sophistication and simplicity to interiors.

Image credit: Damian Russell

4. WILD FLOWERS

Celebrate exuberant floral prints in lush colour combinations.

‘In particular florals take a moodier turn across fabric design, with a fixation on dark heritage blooms that create an air of faded grandeur. Bold, dramatic blooms are perfect for those looking to make a statement; by utilising a floral motif in a darker palette throughout one’s upholstery, an injection of personality is achieved without it looking overly chintzy,’ enthuses Louisa Tratalos,Head of Brand, Arley House.

Romano fabric in Plum, from £85, V&A Arley House.

Image credit: Damian Russell

5. MELLOW YELLOW

Muted earthy yellow ochre – a pigment used since prehistoric times – contrasts beautifully with neutral charcoals and greys, and works with blond wood for an alluring mid-century vibe.

7. RICH TAPESTRIES

Idyllic pastoral scenes and stylised flora and fauna designs bring an established, traditional edge to interiors, and a dreamy reflection of the natural world.

Image credit: Damian Russell

8. EATHY HUES AND NATURAL TEXTURES

‘The most influential interior design and trade fairs across Europe this year saw a huge array of earthy hues and natural textures across soft furnishings, upholstery and flooring. These trade shows often display key trends for the coming years, so it’s to note that these trends won’t be disappearing anytime soon. That being said, this trend is arguably timeless; think raw silks, cotton linens, boucles, wools and heavy weaves in tones such as taupes, creams, brows and greys. Selecting these finishes in curtains and blinds delivers a sophisticated and classic end result guaranteed to create room envy,’ says Alexandra Jones at Couture Living.

9. EMBROIDERED WEAVES

‘The art of embroidery has been around for decades, but 2020 is seeing a strong comeback for this traditional technique. Embroidery pattens come in an array of designs and styles from all fabric suppliers, but this year’s trend is heavily focuses on bohemian and romantic designs; think florals and delicate organic patterns in feminine colour palettes. Embroidery can be found on an arrangement of fabrics such a linens, velvets, wool and so on. Selecting a detailed embroidered design on an item such as a roman blind where the pattern can be aptly displayed can provide a show stopping feature piece,’ explains Alexandra Jones at Couture Living.